Webb was at the centre of controversy in January after Ryan Babel posted a mocked-up picture of the official wearing a Manchester United shirt on Twitter in the aftermath of United's FA Cup win over Liverpool. The referee had awarded a first-minute penalty to the home side – a decision described by the Liverpool manager, Kenny Dalglish, as "a joke" – and dismissed Steven Gerrard in the 32nd minute for a two-footed tackle on Michael Carrick.

Webb also caused a furore after awarding United a controversial penalty against Tottenham at Old Trafford in April 2009 that sparked United's comeback from 2-0 down to win 5-2. He later described it as "not the greatest decision of my career" and was dropped to the Championship the following weekend.

Since then Webb has struggled to avoid controversy – with his refereeing of the World Cup final last year coming under particular scrutiny – although he took charge for Arsenal's visit to Old Trafford in December with little drama.